2011 Geneva Motor Show was the place for the new Toyota Prius Plus full Hybrid MPV. This new addition to the Prius family will be the most economical and cleanest seven-seat MPV when it goes on sale in Europe in 2012.
The new Prius is a more practical and comfortable version of the eco car suitable for family use. Prius+ provides a significant increase in space and passenger accommodation compared to its sister hatchback model.
There are three independent, split-folding second row seats and a 50:50 split-folding third row. In spite of the increase in size, it retains the fundamental performance benefits associated with Prius, including the lowest fuel consumption of any seven-seater on the market.
the exterior design of the car is based on the normal Prius and with Cd 0.29 drag coefficient it is more functional than pretty. highlights of it include trapezoidal front end incorporates sharp-edged headlamps, flat, vertical ‘aero’ corners that reduce air turbulence, and an enlarged lower grille to improve aerodynamics and engine cooling. The rear of the car features a top-hinged tailgate, intricate lamp clusters and a roof spoiler that further manages smooth airflow.
Prius+ is equipped with the latest generation of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive and is the first Toyota non-plug-in hybrid to use a lithium-ion battery pack. The compact dimensions of this battery – first introduced in Prius Plug-in – allow it to be contained entirely beneath the second row seats, which means passenger and loadspace and the vehicle’s interior flexibility are unaffected.
It also has the same three ‘on-demand’ drive modes of EV, ECO and Power.
Toyota Prius Plus MPV Hybrid is for European market launch in first half of 2012.